Q) What, in your view, makes an entry truly stand out?

A) Authenticity, be yourself! A strong entry clearly articulates what the individual has achieved, why it matters, and how it was achieved. The most compelling entries should be well evidenced and show the outcomes of the change and achievements.

Q) What key qualities or achievements will you be looking for in entries?

A) I’ll be looking for a combination of commercial impact, leadership, professionalism, and values. That might be exceeded targets, client impact, team leadership, or contribution beyond the day job, particularly where someone has influenced others positively.

Q) Beyond individual success, how much weight do you give to those who are actively lifting others up or mentoring the next generation?

A) A great deal. The strongest leaders are those who develop others. Actively mentoring, supporting colleagues, or creating opportunities for others demonstrates long term thinking and leadership maturity, which I place significant value on.